Kona3 downconvert without the need of a deck ???

Can i use the Kona3 card to do the down convert and, in real time, record it back in FCP ??? Basically, i need to find the best way to downconvert a 1920x1080i @ 29.97 to SD for DVD. I don't own a Digibeta. Thanks

The Kona (and all other capture cards) only convert when you capture or output. It won't work on ONE mac. You can do this with TWO computers and two capture cards. But you are only going to DVD. Just export your timeline as a self contained QT, and use the BEST QUALITY settings in Compressor for DVD. It does a great job.

Downconvert via compressor look pretty bad. I've tried virtually every setting combination...still not acceptable for most of my costumers.
My workflow is usually HD output from my FCP to a post house for downscale ( i believe they use Teranex ) then i encode with CinemaCraft. This workflow makes beautiful looking DVD.
I just want to test the downconvert of some of these capture cards and see where they stand next to the big boys. Oh well, i guess i need a deck or a second system to record back.